BPEX: New gilt management package/ producers to re-assess practices

BPEX is asking producers to re-assess their gilt management practices. It is useful to question or challenge how things are done and the new Two-Tonne Sow (2TS) Gilt Management Pack is full of practical management advice and examples.

Knowledge Transfer Manager Lis Ravn said: “The pack provides a single source of advice on all aspects of gilt management, particularly those which might not have been reviewed recently. Nutrition, health, housing and reproductive performance are all covered. We have designed it to be thought stimulating and prompt producers to discuss new ideas with their vet, nutritionist or breeding company.”

It contains a number of popular 2TS publications, including a new Action for Productivity fact sheet, plus:

·A new A3-sized gilt selection poster, developed by the Knowledge Transfer team with input with breeding companies. It is a simple guide that enables producers to look at their animals and understand the influence each physical trait has on subsequent performance

· Case studies which show how other producers manage their gilts and how best practice achieves good results

· A gilt feeding review which gives the pros and cons of the many different feeding strategies

·Specifically for outdoor breeders, there is a gilt management check list and best practice guide.